Robert Suarez

Suarez has never pitched in the States, but he has already made a name for himself in professional baseball. He emerged as one of the top closers in Japan over the last two years. His 2021 season with the Hanshin Tigers was especially impressive, with Suarez posting a 1.16 ERA and 0.77 WHIP to go along with 42 saves. He barely averaged a strikeout per inning in five seasons in Japan, and that simple fact will lead many to doubt Suarez as he transitions to Major League Baseball. However, Suarez has big-league velocity, sitting in the high-90s and reaching triple digits, and he can pull the string on the changeup to get hitters out in front. It's a pitch arsenal that looks like it will play in the majors, and the Padres are betting on it, having signed Suarez to a one-year deal with a team option for 2023. Bullpen roles are up for grabs in San Diego under new manager Bob Melvin. Read Past Outlooks